Russia sold Alaska to the United States in 1867 for a surprisingly low $7.2 million, a deal finalized amidst shifting geopolitical priorities. Facing financial strain and fearing losing the territory to Britain, Russia saw selling Alaska as a pragmatic move.
The purchase, equivalent to roughly $120 million today, involved otter pelts, Orthodox priests, and complex negotiations. It marked the end of Russia's presence in North America and expanded the U.S. territory significantly.
Interestingly, recent news indicates a renewed focus on Alaska, with Trump planning to speak with Zelensky before a potential summit in the region, highlighting its continued strategic importance. This comes as analysts consider whether Putin might be laying a trap in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
